The influenza A virus (IAV) causes 250,000 to 500,000 deaths worldwide each year. Researchers have now identified the TDRD7 gene as an important regulator against the virus, which causes respiratory infections in countless people.
Wolfgang Kempkens, pte
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The influenza A virus (IAV), which is responsible for 250,000 to 500,000 deaths a year worldwide, may soon lose its terror thanks to researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine, part of the Mount Sinai Health System. The experts have identified the TDRD7 gene as an important regulator against the virus, which causes respiratory infections in countless people. This could facilitate the development of novel therapeutic interventions against influenza virus infection.
Viruses use weakened genes
The researchers used RNA sequencing to analyze gene expression over time in cells and tissues collected from IAV-infected humans, ferrets and mice. In this way, several important defense processes could be identified. A gene that plays a key role in immunological defense mechanisms against IAV is TDRD7. In order to prove this, active ingredients were used that inhibit the gene. IAV promptly multiplied much faster.
The scientists conclude that the gene is an important weapon against infections, which, however, needs to be tightened up, they say. “Identifying both common and species-specific responses to influenza is essential for the development of effective therapies against influenza and can also help improve research into other respiratory infections such as Covid-19,” says Christian Forst, assistant professor of genetics and genomics and microbiology.
reactions of the immune system
When IAV infects its host, an immunological response consisting of a series of molecular processes begins. IAV can infect in a variety of ways, and physiological and genetic differences contribute to different host responses. Some are easily able to deal with the attacker, others find it difficult, but are ultimately successful and still others become seriously ill. “The identification of important defense processes and key regulators can facilitate the development of therapies for IAV infections,” says Bin Zhang, director of the Center for Transformative Disease Modeling.
Those: Pressetext.com